Fungal biofilms are a major cause of antifungal treatment failure and recurrent infections. Our specialized service provides a comprehensive solution for evaluating the susceptibility of fungal biofilms to various antifungal agents. This is crucial for drug discovery and clinical research, helping to identify effective treatments against these complex, drug-resistant structures. Our service employs standardized and validated protocols to provide accurate and reproducible results. Contact Us for a Customized Quote
Overview
Fungal biofilms are communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced extracellular matrix (ECM). This matrix acts as a physical barrier, protecting the fungi from the host immune system and, most importantly, making them significantly more resistant to antifungal drugs than their planktonic (free-floating) counterparts. Traditional susceptibility testing, which uses planktonic cultures, often fails to predict the efficacy of a drug against a biofilm infection, leading to ineffective treatment strategies.
Detailed Scope of Service: Tailored Solutions for Your Research Needs
We offer a flexible and customizable service to meet your specific research needs. Our services include:
Workflow
Service Details
Deliverables
Turnaround Time
Services
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Biofilm Formation Assay: We can determine the optimal conditions for biofilm formation for your specific fungal strains.
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Biofilm Susceptibility Testing: This is our core service, evaluating the efficacy of your compounds against fungal biofilms. We can test a wide range of antifungal agents, including small molecules, natural products, and novel compounds.
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Synergy Testing: We can assess the combined effect of two or more antifungal agents against fungal biofilms.
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Biofilm Dispersal Assay: We can evaluate the ability of your compounds to break down or disperse pre-formed biofilms.
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Time-Kill Studies: This service provides a dynamic view of how an antifungal drug reduces biofilm viability over time.
Sample Information
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Fungal Strains: Please provide the fungal strains in a viable state (e.g., on an agar slant or in a cryovial). We can work with a wide variety of fungal species, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, and others.
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Test Compounds: Please provide your compounds in a powder or liquid form with known purity and solubility information.
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Required Volume: We will specify the required volume based on the study design and number of concentrations to be tested.
Deliverables
You will receive a detailed and comprehensive report containing:
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Raw data from the spectrophotometric readings.
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Calculated MBEC/MBIC values.
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Dose-response curves for each compound tested.
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A summary of the methodology used.
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Interpretation of the results and discussion of their significance.
Turnaround Time
Standard turnaround time is 4-6 weeks from the receipt of all samples and a signed project agreement.
Ready to discuss your project? Let us get in touch and explore how our consulting services can help you achieve your goals.
Mechanism of Action
We used quantitative assays to measure the metabolic activity of fungal biofilms after exposure to antifungal agents. The process involves growing a stable fungal biofilm on a surface, such as a microtiter plate. The biofilm is then treated with a range of concentrations of the test antifungal drug. After a specified incubation period, a viability dye is added to the wells. The dye is metabolized by living cells, producing a color change that can be measured spectrophotometrically. The results are used to calculate the Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC) or the Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC), which represent the lowest concentration of a drug needed to kill or inhibit the biofilm, respectively.
Our Advantages: Why Partner with Us?
Validated Protocols
Our methods are based on established and published protocols, ensuring reliable and reproducible results.
Expert Team
Our team of mycologists and microbiologists has extensive experience in biofilm research.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We utilize advanced microtiter plate readers and other equipment to ensure high-quality data.
Customizable Service
We are flexible and can tailor our protocols to meet your specific research needs.
Confidentiality
We guarantee the highest level of confidentiality for all your proprietary compounds and data.
Applications
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Antifungal Drug Discovery: Screening for new compounds with anti-biofilm activity.
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Medical Device Research: Testing the efficacy of coatings on medical devices (e.g., catheters, implants) to prevent fungal biofilm formation.
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Agricultural Research: Evaluating antifungal agents for crop protection against plant pathogens.
The increasing incidence of antifungal resistance and high mortality associated with invasive fungal infections highlight the urgent need for new and effective treatments. By specifically targeting fungal biofilms, our service provides a critical tool for developing drugs that can overcome this major therapeutic challenge. Don't let your research be limited by traditional testing methods—unlock the potential of your compounds with our specialized fungal biofilm susceptibility testing service.
Your next breakthrough is just a conversation away. Let's talk about your challenges and find a custom solution together.
FAQs
What is the difference between a planktonic and a biofilm susceptibility test?
Planktonic tests measure the susceptibility of free-floating cells, while biofilm tests measure the susceptibility of cells within a complex, drug-resistant community. Biofilm tests are more relevant for chronic or device-related infections.
What fungal species can you test?
We can work with a wide range of clinically and agriculturally relevant fungal species.
Can you test natural products or extracts?
Yes, we have experience testing a diverse range of compounds, including complex natural extracts.
How do I start a project?
